Chancellor Ponder congratulated members of the Class of 2010 at the May
Commencement Ceremony.

Creativity in problem-solving is a hallmark of the liberal arts tradition. The current economic climate has challenged us to demonstrate this creativity in all aspects of university life— from finding new ways to help our students and their families afford a top-quality education to aligning the curriculum to meet the needs of an ever-changing world.

You'll be pleased to know that UNC Asheville is not only solving problems creatively, but we are breaking new ground (literally and figuratively) on a major health and wellness center that will serve all of North Carolina; topping the charts on national college rankings; and leading the state on sustainability measures, energy consumption and green building practices—all while remaining among the most affordable public liberal arts colleges in the country.

I offer my sincere thanks to all our faculty and staff, our students, our alumni and community supporters for believing in UNC Asheville.
With your help, we will continue to look to a very bright future."

—Chancellor Anne Ponder

Navigating these difficult economic times has been challenging, but we have fared better than most, in part due to strong leadership and superb guidance from UNC President Erskine Bowles, who will be passing the torch at the end of the calendar year. Though we will miss his political acumen and business perspective, we at UNC Asheville are feeling particularly optimistic about his successor, Tom Ross. As the current president of Davidson College, Ross brings a fundamental understanding of the true value of the liberal arts as well as a fine mind and deep commitment to North Carolina. We look forward to his leading and inspiring the UNC system for years to come.

Chancellor Ponder visits with students at the start of the fall semester.

As you peruse this edition of UNC Asheville Magazine, I hope you will share my admiration for our students, faculty and alumni who are demonstrating extraordinary creativity in addressing the pressing challenges of our time. Follow professor David Clarke's adventures in South America, and meet donors who have made a difference on our campus. You'll also read about our students who have travelled to India, China and Sweden to study and volunteer. And you are sure to catch some Bulldog fever from our live mascot, Rocky I, as he inspires school spirit all over campus, as only a loveable dog can do.

In closing, I offer my sincere thanks to all our faculty and staff, our students, our alumni and community supporters for believing in UNC Asheville. With your help, we will continue to look to a very bright future.